So the Gael said, and, in that distant time, the people of the Gael were a wise people, holding the ancient knowledge, and they honoured the poet and feared him, for his fostering was among the people of the Shee, and his curse was quickened with the authority of the gods.

Fine Gael, which is favored to lead Ireland's next government following elections on Feb. 25 according to opinion polls, has said it may seek European approval to impose losses on senior bank bondholders if it takes power.